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The Punishment Pit #4

Balancing It All

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Battling the tug-of-war between dominance and submission.

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 6, 2020

55 people are currently reading
110 people want to read

About the author

Livia Grant

53 books1,347 followers
USA Today bestselling author Livia Grant lives in Chicago with her husband and furry rescue dog named Max. She is fortunate to have been able to travel extensively and as much as she loves to visit places around the globe, the Midwest and its changing seasons will always be home. Livia's readers appreciate her riveting stories filled with deep, character driven plots, often spiced with elements of BDSM.

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5 stars
120 (63%)
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50 (26%)
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14 (7%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Profile Image for Louise H's Book Thoughts.
2,040 reviews317 followers
April 11, 2024
I loved how Derek talked Lukas down, following Tiffany's foolish venture at the end of the last book, he really did lay down some home truths. I loved the heat of Markus and Brianna's scenes, I quite warmed to the couple in this one. A real strength of them was in their roles as friends to Brianna and Lukas. Having learnt their lesson, the communication between them was very good too.


Lukas needed to follow their lead, he fell far too often into telling Tiffany not to do something, rather than explaining why. I suppose he's used to submissives who obey his every word, but he knows that isn't Tiffany. It also felt like a lack of respect towards her, keeping the little woman in the dark because it's easier for him.

I was definitely on Tiff's side regarding the contract. I know Lukas was worried about overstepping boundaries but for me they were embarking on a relationship as a couple who would explore D/s and BDSM, not one as a Dominant and his submissive. I was surprised, after how much her strong spirit and independence were drummed into us, that she folded and went for the 24/7 relationship Lukas was after, rather than a compromise that allowed her to retain some autonomy. It felt like an easier path for the author than an honest path for the couple.


I more and more felt as though Lukas was wanting everything his way, waiting for the right time to push on, rather than truly compromising. By the end (and yet another tough cliffy) he felt like a total selfish ass who really didn't deserve Tiffany. Lukas was the only thing that kept me reading after book #1. He and Tiffany have held me into this series. Sadly in this book, he took a huge nosedive in my estimation.


I loved the introduction of Violet and Gray, it helped me believe in Tiffany's progress and acceptance of events. Seeing a strong female submissive, one who had her own "mind" was a nice touch, and definitely, a reassurance Tiffany needed. The scenes prior to the collaring ceremony were incredibly hot, though I felt as though Lukas and Markus were more interested in their own sexual gratification than they were in the well-being of Brianna and Tiffany. They crossed from dominant to overbearing at times. In fact, the upset at the end of the ceremony was a prime example of Lukas not being as open with Tiffany as he expected her to be with him.


However, overall I enjoyed the book and the ending left me on tenterhooks for the next book! Someone has a lot of grovelling to do.
Profile Image for Kelly_Reads_Books.
2,133 reviews192 followers
September 27, 2020
Oh my Livia, this is the most intense Punishment Pit story so far!
I love Tiffany and Lukus's story and Balancing It All was so beautifully written with the perfect amount of tension, BDSM, and eroticism. I could not put this book down. And that ending, wow, just wow!
I can't wait for Defending It All!
Profile Image for Dennis.
952 reviews27 followers
September 10, 2021
Seriously wonderful BDSM book

I really love the whole Punishment Pit series and this book like the previous books in the series works best if you are reading the series in order, especially since this book just like the previous volume ends in a cliffhanger. That said in this story we mostly have Lukus and Tiffany, but Markus and Brianna are also featured prominently. There is an awesomely steamy scene involving the two couples that I think you will love and there other steamy scenes and punishments that I enjoyed a lot. I really recommend this book and the entire series I just love it. 😍 ❤️
Profile Image for Julia Butterfield - Stevens.
907 reviews9 followers
October 6, 2020
This continues on straight from the previous book. It is a series and must be read in order.

Marcus and Bri are back on track and their relationship is going from strength to strength. However the shadow of Jake is still hanging over them and I have a feeling things will get bad again before it gets better.

Lukas and Tiffany are settling into their new relationship but it's not an easy path. Lukas is holding himself back and Tiff is trying to overcome her fears and admit what she wants or doesn't want. I may be in a minority here but Lukas in his unfettered dom mode does seem to be a bit too hardcore for fiery, sassy Tiffany. He's the master of the Punishment Pit and she has issues with complete submission and punishments. Can they really meet in the middle somewhere and be happy? Although they have majorly hot sexual chemistry, at this point I'm not convinced they are suited, especially after his huge mistake where he breaks his own rules about truth, trust and honesty at the end of the book which resulted in an angsty cliffhanger. I was so annoyed with him but I am very interested to see how he deals with it in the next book as Tiff has him in a complete tailspin! I hope he can keep control of his guilt and anger because she will push back.

Overall I did enjoy this, its well written, sexy, angsty and I love the psychological side to bdsm we see, but it wasn't my favourite of the series so far. As well as my feelings above, there was an extremely hardcore, m/s scene towards the end that made me a bit uncomfortable to be honest. There were a couple of fabulous new characters however, Violet and Madame Martha and I am looking forward to what comes next. Lukas has some grovelling to do, if..... and this is a big if, he can find it within himself to do so!
3.75 stars
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,191 reviews
October 1, 2020
This book is not a standalone. It is really necessary to read the first three books.

On the surface, it seemed like smooth sailing. But, there was so much going on in this book it was amazing. Markus and Bri were moving along smoothly in their relationship. The caveat being that the "Jake issue" was still hanging over Markus' head.

Lukus and Tiffany were moving forward, but still trying to feel each other out. Tiffany was not being forthcoming, and Lukus was also holding himself back.

One major issue with Lukus was that his relationship with Tiffany was starting to have an effect on his business. He was being stretched too thin, and possibly not being the full fledged dominant that he knew himself to be. Was that what he wanted, or what Tiffany needed? Lukus also has the same Jake issue hanging over him that Markus has.

I admit, Lukus made a bad move, totally out of fear. I understand Tiffany being upset and angry, but I felt like she was blowing things a bit out of proportion based on her accusations. I also feel like Tiffany had a tendency to overreact, especially considering she knew what Lukus did and who Lukus was when she decided to get involved.

It really makes me wonder if Tiff can handle Lukus. Can she accept him for who he is and what he does? I really like the dynamic of the two couples. Markus and Bri are very supportive of Lukus and Todd's relationship. I fell like they balance each other very well.

I guess "Balancing It All" turned out to be a major issue for Lukus and Tiffany. I'm looking forward to the next book. I would give this 4.5 stars.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

Profile Image for Badh.
3,311 reviews66 followers
October 14, 2020
Back to the ongoing saga of Markus and Briana and Tiffany and Lukus.

I've really enjoyed watching Markus and Bri put their marriage back together, because it hasn't been an easy journey for them. I'm starting to like Markus more and more with each book. He's pulled himself together and become someone to really like.

I still think that Lukus is a good guy, and I think that he's doing the best he can while he's trying to figure out his new relationship and his new relationship style. He's dealing with a newbie in Tiffany, and trying to introduce her to kink, and trying to be in a relationship other than a Dom who is topping a sub. He's never had a girlfriend, so it's new to him. He mostly does OK, but not always. I did get mad at him at one point.

Tiffany is doing as well as she can too. It's not easy on her side either, and she's fighting with herself over it, and trying to deal with her insecurity about Lukus and his history. It's not always easy for her, but she tries.
Profile Image for Maria (Ri).
5,152 reviews16 followers
October 1, 2020
4.3 stars

One thing I can say about this author is her ability to keep a story progressing and her characters always continue to grow. In a series such as this, that is especially important. There has to be a balance between the story, character growth, and not becoming too static. I won't lie and say that I had some serious issues at the beginning of this series. Serious enough, that I had to contemplate whether I wanted to continue on, which is painful to admit because I love this author immensely. I am glad to say that it paid off to continue because she is slowly moving me to a place where I feel better about the way that the direction of the story is going.

I liked seeing where the characters were at, both at different points of their relationship; one slowly healing and the other gaining awareness as well as acceptance. There is still a major issue hanging over both parties and I look forward to seeing how the author handles that. I appreciate all of the characters for various things but I am really invested in Lukus at this point and hope that Tiffany is worth the work because I sure wanted to shake some sense into her a time or two. However, knowing that it needed something for character growth in the next book leaves me hopeful that she will mellow out.
Profile Image for Rose Howse.
914 reviews15 followers
October 10, 2020
Making a new relationship work is a precarious thing when both parties have a lot to learn and limits are unknown. Lukus and Tiffany have a lot to learn about each other and how to make it work with their business and personal lives. Marcus and Brianna are there too and will help at times to make each couple learn how to adjust. The sex in this installment is hot, erotic, enticing and panty melting. I particularly enjoyed being a voyeur during a show in the Punishment Pit, hot stuff! The journey of Lukus trying to take it slow and easy with Tiff and Tiff trying to learn her limits and give her submission, I felt her struggles and her desire to be everything Lukus wanted but her need to be everything she needed to be for her daily life to fit into his at the same time. Such a balancing act.
Profile Image for Shane Starrett.
Author 15 books831 followers
January 24, 2021
One of the things you can always expect from Ms. Grant is an unflinching, uncompromising look at the world of BDSM in her writings. There is no better example of that than this novel. ANY relationship is difficult, and trying to balance your wants, needs, and desires against all that life throws at you is never without pitfalls along the way. It’s all too easy to take shortcuts, make assumptions, and believe in only the worst-case scenario, and Ms. Grant shows how that can take something beautiful and potentially turn it into something terribly painful. Juxtapose some HOT AF sexiness against the heartbreak of not being true to yourself and those who proclaim their love, and you have a book that will keep you turning page after page. Do not miss!
1,751 reviews3 followers
October 9, 2020
I really love this series and i'm so glad it got rereleased. I must say Livia Grant really does a great job bringing her characters to life. This is book 4 in this series and does end on a cliff so be warned
1,468 reviews10 followers
October 6, 2020
Lucas.....shake my head in wonder at you and your choices
Tiffany......oh so much to learn

Marcus and Bri are doing great......
The things we learn and see in this story will keep you wanting to know more!
Profile Image for Jacqueline Chappell.
1,444 reviews21 followers
September 24, 2020
So much happens in this book. It’s full of steamy scenes and deepening the d/s relationships of Markus and Bri as well as Tiffany and Lukus. There is a step up into the investigation of Jake the A-hole. But the real drama comes at the end when Lukus makes a critical error in his relationship with Tiffany. This ends on a very angsts cliffhanger. I’m definitely going to be waiting to see if he can get them back on track after such a mistake.
351 reviews3 followers
October 13, 2020
This is the best one yet of the Punishment Pit series! This is a huge five stars from me to Ms. Livia Grant!!!

We get a phenomenal balance of Brianna, Markus, Lukas, and Tiffany's POVs! There are so many steamy scenes! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE the what I call "the outing" scenes! There are so many great moments of suspense, build up, education, and drama!

I cannot wait for the next book! BRAVO Livia! AMAZING STORY. AMAZING CHARACTERS. BLOWN. AWAY.
Profile Image for Kay Parker.
Author 44 books977 followers
October 6, 2020
This series is getting better and better as the books keep coming.
I've definitely warmed up to Markus more, and I love that he's coming into his own as Brianna's Dom. But the stars of the show are still Tiffany and Lukas - he definitely pushes all my buttons, although his actions at this end of this book made me want to smack him into next month for being an idiot.
Not slap him, no.
Flat out deck him for being a moron.
I'm hoping Tiffany will take care of that, but I have my reservations.
I can't wait to read book 5 to find out what choices she makes.
Profile Image for Donna Louise.
798 reviews12 followers
October 6, 2020
Donna L
5.0 out of 5 stars Just Keeps Getting Better
Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2020
Boy!! What an education i have received on BDSM by reading the
books in this series.Ms Grant is uncompromising in her depiction
of how a complicated relationship can work.She has a descriptive
writing style and the ability to tell a story that will keep you
captivated.

With this book we reach a point where it becomes very interesting
as Tiffany starts to challenge Lukus .Their relationship moves up a
notch, and the fall out was spectacular.Tiffany’s curiosity led to her
first serious punishment.A punishment that neither of them wanted,
but it was what was needed.Tiffany tested his resolve.Lukus gained
her submission.It was a balancing act, and he wanted it all.

Brianna and Marcus continue to work hard at repairing their marriage.
I liked how his mind worked.So devious at times.Brianna finally got
what she needed. A dominant who set out to make new memories.I
have thawed towards Brianna as she does everything in her power to
make Marcus the entire focus in her life.

This book flowed with an urgency that kept me glued to every
page.I am intrigued by the lifestyle and am left wanting more.The
punishment and sex scenes were woven together tightly.It was hard
to have one without the other. My favorite parts were the quiet
moments that show the depth of understanding of a D/S relationship.
The emotions and feelings of both couples change as they experience
life challenges,and this is what makes this book exceptional.
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,813 reviews41 followers
October 10, 2020
Heads up, this series must be read in order. Books 1 and 2 were the story of Brianna and Markus and books 3, 4 and 5 are focused on Lukus and Tiffany although Brianna and Markus do appear quite a bit.

This picks up right where Having It All left off. Lukas and Tiffany are working through their new relationship, but it is a challenge for sure. Lukas is trying not to scare Tiffany off and she is questioning if she is enough for him and also if he may need things she can’t provide. After all he is the Master’s Master. Of course, we end on a huge cliffhanger and so we are anxious to see what happens next in Defending It All.

I’m definitely vested in this series. Again, I don’t think the cover matched the darker vibe and punishment elements of the story. It has so much sexy angsty tension filled encounters it keeps me guessing on what will happen next. And there is still the dark cloud of Jake to deal with at some point.
#MSBB
Profile Image for Rhonda Hicks.
4,684 reviews85 followers
October 8, 2020
Livia Grant has the innate ability to weave a story that automatically grabs my interest and seems to answer the questions in my mind before I can translate it into a full thought. I thought I had a pretty good understanding of BDSM up until I started this series and now I feel like I've gotten a whole new education! It's wonderful!! We get to see the progress Marcus and Brianna are making in their marriage and finding the 'balance' that works for them. And then there's Lukus and Tiffany. He wants more and wants to show Tiffany what he expects but Tiffany has seen firsthand what happened to Brianna previously. She's struggling between her protection of sassy independence and her want/need to submit. These couples are awe-inspiring at times. I can't wait to see how this continues to play out.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest and voluntary review.
144 reviews1 follower
October 9, 2020
This is not a stand-alone - you must read the series in order. We predominantly continue with more of Lucas and Tiffany but also Marcus and Brianna. I love seeing Lucas getting challenged and how all the emotions are hanging out in this one. It’s fascinating to see the uninitiated Tiffany feeling her way, and I think hesitance with some aspects of the lifestyle is very believable and helps to draw us more into this couples story. Loved the further explorations of Marcus and Brianna - hot!! The ending of this book too - wow, I’m going to be on tenterhooks to see what happens, I don’t want to give any spoilers but a major error was made and I fear the road back may be rocky! Feeling more and more connected to these characters as the series goes on. Beautifully written and smoking hot story, can’t wait for the next instalment.
I was given an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
37 reviews2 followers
October 17, 2020
Oh this series! Each and every book has been 5 stars, each one better than the next! Books 1 and 2 focused on Brianna and Marcus's relationship and introduced Tiffany and Lukus. I will admit the first book was hard to get through but I stuck with it based on reviews by others who considered DNFing but were glad they didn't. The 2nd book brought so much to light about what happened in the first and you really began to care for Brianna and Marcus.

Book 3 and 4 have focused on Tiffany and Lukus's budding relationship. The emotional roller coaster of the whole series is an incredible ride. And the steam - hot, hot, hot. These are my first books by Livia Grant and she is one of my new favorites. Living in the Chicago area, I appreciate the references to the skyline and nearby towns. Great work by a home town author! I am anxiously awaiting the release of book #5.
Profile Image for Saskia.
1,775 reviews55 followers
October 4, 2020
Book 4 in the series and it is a continuous story, so you can’t read it as a stand alone.

Navigating a new relationship isn’t easy for either couple. It takes a lot of communication, honesty, strength, humor and love. Both couples are figuring out where they stand and how to continue. Dealing with feelings you never had before and new ways of dealing with things.

This book is about the characters and Livia Grant is an author who does an amazing book is creating complex and layered characters with many different facets and their good and bad trades.

This book will make you laugh, make you hot and bothered and you might yell at some of the characters.

I can't wait for the next book.
2,190 reviews15 followers
October 8, 2020
This series continues to astound!! Each book is better than the last! This author truly has a talent for telling stories that grab our attention but also balance the characters journeys that we witness so that we're involved in every aspect of the story. This was truly a clinic in Balancing It All we got to see Marcus and Brianna's progress in their relationship as well as Lukus and Tiffany . Lukus is telling her that he wants more with her and he wants her to know what to expect. This was the perfect way to balance the story and what we've come to expect from this AMAZING author. I can't wait for the next book in this SCORCHING HOT Series!! I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion of this book.
Profile Image for Carolyn Spence.
1,931 reviews16 followers
September 25, 2020
Tug of War
The story continues. Lukas and Tiffany are still working through the nuances of their new relationship and she nailed it on the head when she said it's like a tug of war. Sometimes one of them pulls too far and the other ends up falling. They are both strong characters and both are not used to be denied what they want. Lukas has made a critical error and Tiffany calls him on it and that's where this chapter leaves off on.

Markus and Brianna are faring much better, and when they connect, it's explosive. I loved the tug of war analogy, yoga, the three categories, the limo scene, and oh yes, and let's not forget Martha.

I freely reviewed this book
144 reviews2 followers
September 28, 2020
OMG! This is back to the hot and steamy portion of the series. Relationships are progressing, Brianna and Markus are finding their way and becoming more solid. Tiffany and Lukas are struggling a bit, as a good relationship is new to them both. Add in the BDSM aspect and get your fans out. I could not put this book down. I keep waiting for Jake to show up, what is going to happen next with that entire issue, I am on the edge of my seat.

Livia Grant has a flare for pulling you in and keeping you attached to her characters and the story. Her writing makes you feel like are you are there in the story with them and are part of it.
Profile Image for Anne (Izzie).
382 reviews1 follower
September 28, 2020
Oh Wow!! This series is just so good, and is getting better and hotter with each book.
Whilst Markus and Brianna are continuing to explore (and enjoy!) the new aspects to their marriage, Lukus and Tiffany’s relationship is growing more and more intense, as he introduces her to more of what she has previously only read about. There are some really hot scenes throughout, loved what went on at Mistress Martha’s and the trip back in the limousine. Things seem to be going well for them but then something happens that threatens the viability of their whole relationship..... I can’t wait for the next book. I can’t recommend this series highly enough.
Profile Image for Hanan .
2,035 reviews20 followers
October 5, 2020
This series is getting better and better with each book.
I’m loving how the characters are growing and developing.
How they are trying to deal with their circumstances and predicaments.
Markus and Bri are more stable and moving in a good direction.
They are healing from their wounds and going forward because their love is powerful.
Lukas and Tiffany are still learning about each other and themselves.
Both are still unsure and not as steady or forthcoming yet.
But both couples still have the jackass Jake looming in their relationships.
I love how Ms. Grant is giving growth and great development of each character.
And the depth and dynamics between them.
Looking forward to the next book!
3,087 reviews18 followers
October 5, 2020
Lukus is Still my Fave – Even if he is Not Perfect!!

The re-energized marriage of Markus and Brianna, and the growing relationship between Tiffany and Lukus are the focus of this story. As these are sets of best friends the couples spend time together working out their new dynamics.

Tiffany is still new to the scene, and makes a crucial error early on. Lukus has to change how he works to accommodate this long-term relationship. Fabulous give and take, and of course all the scenes you would expect from this sizzling series.

**I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book**
55 reviews
October 6, 2020
Balancing It All is the 4th book in Livia Grant’s Punishment Pit series. I swear, the series keeps getting better with every book she gives us. The change we see in Tiffany is even more pronounced in this book as she struggles with herself, her submission and everything Lukus expects of her. Their relationship is unlike any other I’ve seen written about; normally it’s an established Dom & sub who discover each other. But, it’s refreshing, and a reminder that everyone starts somewhere. But, the ending? Oosh. I was shook. The excerpt from book 5? Amazing, but I need to know what happens! I can’t wait for it to be released!
760 reviews7 followers
October 10, 2020
“Balancing it all” sounds like everything between a loving couple should easily fall into place. But will it? Perhaps a couple might need more than a balance. Perhaps they will need a proper way to communicate.

Brianna and Markus seem to be finding a way to work out their issues, but they have already been married for a short time. And they are learning how to deal with the repercussions of an abusive stalker. Tiffany and Lukus are deeply attracted to each other. But they are working their way from opposite ends of the BDSM spectrum. How will they find their balance?

This series is so absolutely seductive: I cannot wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Jennifer Bolin.
50 reviews
October 13, 2020
omg!! Livia Grant did it again!! In this story, yes we see some of Brianna & Markus BUUUUUUT it mostly focuses on Lukus & Tiffany & their budding relationship & how to straddle that line between vanilla & bdsm with the Master of Master's... They have their ups & downs as Luke pulls Tiff into the bdsm world a little at a time... Just when she finally relaxes a bit & enjoys the relationship, Tiff sees Luke doing what she thinks is the ultimate betrayal while he thinks it's just him doing his job... Will they survive this? I CANT WAIT UNTIL THE NEXT BOOK!!!!!!!!!!!! I honestly don't know how she will top this book, but I know she will ;) <3
1,950 reviews
September 26, 2020
An amazing series continues with Lukus guiding Tiffany gently into BDSM. Marcus and Brianna are still star struck lovers and it is so nice to see as they strengthen their marriage. There is so much steam in this book you will need at least one cold shower before you finish it but it is delicious. There is a huge cliffhanger in this one and I may be the only person who thinks Lukus did the right thing, but he should have given Tiffany advance warning and rationale. It is his club and his responsibility and he had no alternative! I hope Tiffany can come to terms with it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews

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